Septal Reconstruction With Folded Porous Polythylene Implants: An Alternative Technique for the Correction of Severe Saddle Nose Deformities in Asian Populations

Abstract

Background: Congenital or secondary deficiency in septal cartilage leads to an unpleasant cosmetic appearance and compromised function as well. Rhinoplasty maneuvers such as spreader graft and septal extension graft with autologous tissue have been exhibited to correct the deformities. However, the relatively severe donor site morbidity stands as a main concern for both surgeons and patients.

Methods: From January of 2014 to April of 2018, 52 patients presenting septal deformities underwent rhinoplasty with our modified technique. A piece of Medpor (8438) was tailored, folded and then placed as a combination of spreader and septal extension graft. The surgical outcomes were evaluated both objectively and subjectively.

Results: All the patients were followed up for 12 to 24 months postoperatively. The ratio of tip projection and the nasal length exhibited significant improvement in all our patients. Nasal obstruction subjectively mended among the 24 patients who had airway obstruction complaint preoperatively. Only 2 patients had severe adverse events and the implants were removed instantly.

Conclusions: With our modified technique, Medpor proved to be an effective and reliable material for the reconstruction of septal cartilage, which provides us an alternative way to achieve extended spreader and septal extension graft with one single implant in the correction of saddle nose.Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study.